Rain jacket having weather-protective collar

ABSTRACT

Golf jackets having improved collar constructions are provided. The height of the center section of the collar is longer than the height of the first and second end sections of the collar. When closed, the collar can provide an effective weather-proof seal around the neck region. In one embodiment, the jacket has a minimal amount of panels and stitched seams. The jacket has a lightweight construction, good temperature-regulating properties, high stretch/elasticity, and an outer surface that is highly waterproof. The jacket provides the golfer with a complete range of motion so that he/she is comfortable and can play the game easily. In another embodiment, the collar features an inner collar that is readily adjustable to be adjacent the golfer&#39;s neck while making a golf shot during inclement weather, such that rain is less likely to get between the golfer&#39;s neck and the inner collar and dripping down their back during a golf shot and thus disrupting their golf shot.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending, co-assignedU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/806,685 filed Nov. 8, 2017, which isa continuation-in-part of co-pending, co-assigned U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/547,186 filed Nov. 19, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No.10,092,050, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to golf jackets and moreparticularly to golf jackets having weather-protective shaped collars.The jacket is suitable for wearing on and off the golf course.

Brief Review of the Related Art

Both professional and amateur golfers use specialty golf outerwear,particularly golf jackets today. Typically, the jacket includes a shellmade of multiple layers of bonded fabric. The fabric is breathable andwicks moisture and perspiration away from the person wearing the jacket.Many of the jackets provide a high range of motion so golfers enjoywearing the jacket while walking and playing the course, particularlywhen there is inclement weather. The jackets provide protection againstwindy and rainy conditions and many jackets are made of waterproofmaterial. Some of the jackets also are considered fashionable andgolfers enjoy wearing these jackets off the course.

For example, Rodriguez et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,341,766 discloses a golfjacket having a jacket shell with a pocket in an upper region. Asemi-rigid collar is stored in the pocket. When the golfer wants to usethe collar, they partially remove it from the pocket. Thus, thesemi-rigid collar can be moved between a storage position inside of thepocket to a use position outside of the pocket.

Erickson, U.S. Pat. No. 5,946,724 discloses a golf jacket having aliner, shell, and elastic cinch. The opposing ends of the cinch areanchorable to the jacket shell and protrude to the outside. The cinchprotrudes through holes in the shell that are disposed within pockets onthe outside of the shell. When the ends of the cinch are anchored to theshell, the cinch flattens the front of the abdomen, preventing otherwisebunched-up fabric from interfering with the wearer's golf swing. Thetension in the cinch is adjustable by anchoring the cinch end to theshell in one of various relative positions.

Meek, United States Design Patent D294,395 discloses a design for a golfjacket.

Although some conventional golf jackets are somewhat effective inproviding protection against various weather conditions, there is a needfor an improved jacket. Particularly, there is a need for a golf jackethaving a collar construction that creates a more effective water-tightseal without sacrificing comfort. The collar should have sufficientrigidity and yet be comfortable around the neck region. Also, the collarshould be constructed so that it does not distract or interfere with agolfer while they are bending over to address the ball and make a shot.The present invention provides new golf jackets with collar structureshaving improved weather-protective features and comfort as well as otheradvantageous properties, features, and benefits.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a golf jacket having animproved collar structure. The jacket comprises a shell having: i) atorso portion that extends from a shoulder region to hip region of awearer; ii) a collar portion that extends around a neck region of awearer. The torso and collar portions each include first and second sidemembers that are joined by a zipper extending along the length of thejacket shell. The zipper includes first and second sets of complementaryzipper teeth for fastening the first and second side members of therespective torso and collar portions.

The collar includes a body member having upper and lower edges. The bodymember also has a center section and first and second pieced endsections. In the collar portion, the first zipper teeth are attached toan edge of the first pieced section, and the second zipper teeth areattached to an edge of the second pieced section. The center section ofthe collar has a height from the lower edge to the upper edge (H1), andeach end section has a height from the lower edge to the upper edge(H2). The H1 and H2 have different values. In particular, the height ofthe center section is greater than the height of the end sections. Forexample, in one version, the height of the center section (H1) is about3.25 inches; while the height of each end section (H1 and H2) is about2.6 inches. In one preferred embodiment, the H1 and H2 have themathematical relationship of: H1>(1.2)H2. In another preferredembodiment, the H1 and H2 have the mathematical relationship of:(1.2)H21<H1<(1.4)H2.

In a preferred embodiment, the jacket construction has a minimal amountof panels and seams. The jacket includes a shell comprising: i) a torsoregion extending from a shoulder region to hip region of a wearer; ii) acollar region for extending around a neck region of the wearer, thetorso and collar regions each including first and second side members;iii) a zipper extending from the torso to collar region, the zipperincluding first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth forfastening the first and second side members of the torso region togetherand first and second side members of the collar region together.

The shell also includes a first panel extending from a first shoulderregion to a first wrist region and an adjacent second panel extendingfrom the torso region to the first wrist region, the first and secondpanels being joined together by a seam to form an arm sleeve forencompassing a first arm; v) a third panel extending from an opposingsecond shoulder region to a second wrist region and an adjacent fourthpanel extending from the torso region to the second wrist region, thethird and fourth panels being joined together by a seam to form an armsleeve for encompassing a second arm; and a fifth panel extending aroundthe torso region, the fifth panel joined to the first and second panelsby a fifth seam and to the third and fourth panels by a sixth seam.

The jacket has a lightweight construction, good temperature-regulatingproperties, high stretch/elasticity, and an outer surface that is highlywaterproof. The jacket of this invention has both sufficient rigidityand flexibility. The jacket is durable and provides goodweather-protection against the elements and yet it is also comfortable.A person wearing the jacket is free to move in any direction. The personhas full range of motion when wearing the jacket. The jacket isdescribed primarily herein as being used in golf, but the jacket can beworn while performing many other activities including, for example,tennis, boating, exercise classes, running, and walking.

In another embodiment the present invention is directed to a jacketincluding a shell. The shell has a torso region configured for extendingfrom a shoulder region to hip region of a wearer, the torso region alsoincludes a top edge, a bottom edge and first and second torso sideedges, a collar assembly configured for extending around a neck regionof the wearer and connected to the top edge of the torso region, thecollar assembly including first and second collar side ends, an innercollar member and an outer collar member, and a zipper extending fromthe torso bottom edge to the collar assembly, the zipper includes firstand second sets of complementary zipper teeth for fastening the firstand second torso side edges of the torso region together and first andsecond side ends of the collar assembly together. Preferably, the innercollar member is configured for closing into a smaller diameter tube tomore tightly lie against the neck region of the wearer.

In another embodiment the present invention is directed to a collar fora jacket. The collar assembly is configured for extending around a neckregion of a wearer and connecting to a top edge of a torso region of ajacket, the collar assembly includes first and second collar side ends,an inner collar member, and an outer collar member. Preferably, thefirst and second side ends of the collar region are configured to becapable of being connected to one another by a zipper to form a tubularcollar configured to fit around a neck region of a wearer, and the innercollar member is configured for closing more tightly against the neckregion of the wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features that are characteristic of the present invention areset forth in the appended claims. However, the preferred embodiments ofthe invention, together with further objects and attendant advantages,are best understood by reference to the following detailed descriptionin connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a golf jacket ofthe present invention;

FIG. 1A is a rear perspective view of the golf jacket shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 1B is a close-up side view of the golf jacket collar shown in FIG.1;

FIG. 1C is a close-up front view of the golf jacket collar shown in FIG.1;

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of one embodiment of collar of a golf jacketof the prior art;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a collar of a golf jacket of theprior art;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a golf jacket ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4A is another schematic view of the collar of FIG. 4 showing aninside view of the collar;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of one embodiment of a golf jacket collar ofthe present invention showing an outside view of the collar;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a golf jacket ofthe present invention;

FIG. 7 is a back view of the golf jacket shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the golf jacket shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of one embodiment of the golf jacket of thisinvention showing the different panels and seams of the jacket;

FIG. 10 is a close-up side view of a collar of a golf jacket of theprior art with a cut-away of the collar to show its construction and useon a golfer in the rain;

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a golfjacket of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a close-up front view of the collar assembly of the golfjacket of FIG. 11, the collar assembly being laid flat and having acut-away to show an inside view of the inner collar construction;

FIG. 13 is close-up side view of the collar of the jacket of FIG. 11with a cut-away of the collar assembly to show its construction and useon a golfer in the rain;

FIG. 14 is a detailed cut-away view of the collar assembly as shown inFIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a close-up back view of the collar assembly of the golfjacket shown in FIG. 11; and

FIG. 16 is a front detailed view of the collar of the golf jacket ofFIG. 11, the collar assembly being laid flat and having a cut-away toshow an inside view of the inner collar of another embodiment of thecollar assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 1A, the jacket of the present invention isindicated at (14) and generally includes a jacket shell having a torsoportion (16), an integrated collar portion (18), and a zipper (20) thatextends from the torso to collar portions. The jacket includes an outersurface and an inner surface, allowing a person to wear the jacket overtheir body in a normal manner. In a preferred embodiment, the jacketshell (14) is made of a three-layer bonded waterproof fabric. The insidelayer is a brushed knit tricot. The middle layer is a polyurethanemembrane. The outer layer is a polyester woven fabric with mechanicalstretch and durable water repellent (DWR) finish.

The torso portion (16) includes a front section (22) as shown in FIG. 1and a rear section (23) as shown in FIG. 1A. In general, the torsoportion (16) extends from the shoulder region to the hip region of awearer. The jacket shell (14) further includes sleeves (24 a, 24 b) thatextend from the arm openings inside of the shell. The right sleeve (24a) extends from a right shoulder region (26 a) to a right wrist region(28 a), and the left sleeve (24 b) extends from a left shoulder region(26 b) to a left wrist region (28 b) of a wearer.

The front section (22) of the jacket shell (14) is split into two sidemembers by a zipper (20) or other suitable fastening means (for example,buttons, snap fasteners, laces, Velcro® hook and loop fasteners, and thelike). A traditional zipper (20) may be used in the jacket shellconstruction. The zipper includes first and second sets of complementaryzipper teeth for fastening the first and second side members of thefront section together. The first and second side members of frontsection are joined and held together by the zipper. The zipper alsojoins the first and second side members of the collar region asdiscussed further below. In this manner, the jacket shell can be closedto cover the collar, torso, shoulder, and arm regions of the personwearing the jacket. Additionally, the jacket shell may include a pocketin the upper regions of the torso portion. For example, the jacket shell(14) may include a zippered pocket (29) in the upper chest area as shownin FIG. 1. The jacket also may include pockets in the lower side regionsof the torso portion for placing hands or various objects. These pocketsmay be opened and closed by a zipper or other suitable releasableclosing means. For example, the jacket shell (14) may includeright-sided and left-sided zippered pockets (31a, 31b) as shown in FIG.1.

Turning to FIGS. 2 and 3, a golf jacket and particularly a collarconstruction of the prior art are shown. The prior art golf jacket (30)includes a collar (32) having a body member (34) with lower and upperedges (35, 36), the body member having a center section (37) and firstand second end sections (38, 39). The end sections are not piecedsections; they are not joined to the body member by a seam of stitching.The center section (37) has a height from the lower edge (35) to theupper edge (36) indicated as (H1), and the end sections (38, 39) have aheight from the lower edge (35) to the upper edge (36) indicated as(H2). In the golf jackets of the prior art, H1 and H2 are substantiallythe same dimensions. The conventional golf jacket (30) further includesa zipper (40) for closing the jacket including collar.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the golf jacket (12) of the present inventionhaving an improved collar structure (18) is shown. The shaped collar(18) is shown in more detail in FIGS. 4, 4A, and 5. Referring to FIGS. 4(outside view of the collar with piecing of sections shown) and 4A(inside view of the collar with piecing of sections not shown), thecollar (18) includes a body member (44) with a lower edge (46) and upperedge (48). The body member has a center section (50) and a first endsection (52) and second end section (54). The collar end sections (52,54) are pieced sections and are joined to the body member (44) by a seamof stitching (55). As shown in FIGS. 4 and 4A, the collar end sections(52, 54) extend outwardly at an angle, where the sections are seamed tothe collar body (44). The respective collar end sections (52, 54) havelower edges (53, 57) that extend upwardly and form an angle with thelower edge (46) of the collar body member, and the angle of each ofthese collar edges is preferably thirty-five degrees) (35°. The centersection (50) has a height from the lower edge (46) to the upper edge(48) indicated at a first height (H1). Meanwhile, the end section (52)has a height from its lower edge (53) to its upper edge (59) indicatedat a second height (H2). Likewise, the end section (54) has a heightfrom it lower edge (57) to its upper edge (61) also indicated at (H2).The height of each collar end section (52, 54) is the same; however, theheight of the collar center section (50) is different than the height ofthe end sections (52, 54). Thus, (H1) and (H2) are unequal numericalvalues, and preferably are substantially unequal. The shaped collar (42)has different height dimensions along its length. As shown in FIGS. 4and 4A, each of the end sections (52, 54) has a height from their loweredge to their third height at the apex (H3), and the end sections (52,54) also have a height from their lower edge to their upper edge of thezipper (20) designated as the fourth height (H4), wherein the H1; H2;H3; and H4 numerical values are unequal. Preferably, H3 is greater thanH1 which is greater than H2 which is greater than H4. The center and endsections of the shaped collar (42) are non-uniform in height. Inparticular, the height of the center section (50) is greater than theheight of the first and second end sections (52, 54), and this is anadvantageous feature as discussed further below. For example, in oneembodiment, the height of the center section (H1) is 3.25 inches; whilethe height of each end section (H2) is 2.6 inches.

Although the height of the center section (H1) is greater than theheight of each end section (H2), it is important the front area of thecollar does not extend upwardly over the chin area of a person wearingthe jacket. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, the forward-facing area of thecollar (18) has a maximum height such that the upper edge (48) does notextend over the chin/lower jaw area. It is important that a personwearing the golf jacket be able to move his or her head freely andeasily. The collar (18) should not restrict any movement, and it shouldbe comfortable around the neck. Since the upper edge (48) of the frontarea of the collar (18) does not extend over the chin area, the wearerof the jacket has good range of head/neck motion. This flexibility isparticularly important when addressing the golf ball and making shots onthe course. Furthermore, the collar (18) does not have any largeshoulder or abutment areas designed for fitting helmets, masks, or otherhead gear with the jacket. Instead, the upper edge of the collar (18)provides a fitted and stylish look. With this trim and sporty design,the jacket can be worn in formal and informal settings. The collar (18)is neatly tailored and also provides protection against weather elementsso the jacket can be worn comfortably on and off the course.

As discussed above, the height of the center section (50) and endsections (52, 54) are different. In one preferred embodiment, the H1 andH2 have the mathematical relationship of: H1>(1.2)H2. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the H1 and H2 have the mathematical relationshipof: (1.2)H2<H1<(1.4)H2. Also, in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, theshaped collar (60) includes a body member (62) with lower and upperedges (63, 64), wherein the outside surface of upper edge (63) (at PointA) is tangential to a first circle circumscribed on the outside surface;and the inside surface of upper edge (63) (at Point B) is tangential toa second circle circumscribed on the inside surface. And, the radius ofthe first circle (R1 with tangential Point A) is less than the radius ofthe second circle (R2 with tangential Point B). For example, in oneembodiment, the first circle has a radius (R1) of 10.5 inches; while thesecond circle has a radius (R2) of 33.5 inches. The shaped collar (60)is similar to the shaped collar (18) in FIGS. 4 and 4A in that theheight of the center section (66) (at point H1) is greater than theheight of the of the first and second end sections (68, 70) (at pointH2).

In a preferred embodiment of the golf jacket of this invention, a zipperextends from the torso to collar portion as discussed above. The zipperincludes first and second sets of complementary zipper teeth forfastening the first and second side members of the torso portiontogether and the first and second side members of the collar portiontogether. The first zipper teeth are attached to an edge of the firstpieced section and the second zipper teeth are attached to an edge ofthe second pieced section. When the zipper is pulled-up to close thecollar portion, the collar is closed around the neck region of thewearer. When closed, the collar provides a neat, uniformed look. Thecollar is sufficiently rigid so that it will stay in place and prevent awearer's neck region from being exposed to rain and other elements andyet the collar is not excessively tight. The collar has a soft andcomfortable “feel” and a person wearing the jacket can bend their neckand move easily even when the collar is in a fully closed position.Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the first and second pieced end sections (52,54) of the collar may have sloped upper edges (59, 61). When the collaris zippered-up and these angled upper edges (59, 61) are joinedtogether, a truncated V-shaped notch is formed in the collar.

The jacket of the present invention has many advantages includingcomfort, flexibility, and durability. The jacket is relativelylightweight and provides the golfer with a complete range of motion. Andyet, the jacket is durable enough to protect the golfer from severeweather conditions. For example, some golfers prefer to walk the golfcourse. Even golfers, who prefer to drive carts, will walk aconsiderable distance during their round of play. This can beparticularly difficult in stormy weather. Thus, a golf jacket needs toprotect the wearer from rain, wind, and other outside elements, but italso must allow a person to move freely so they can walk and play thegame easily. Thus, the jacket needs to have some rigidity, but it alsoneeds to be sufficiently flexible. The golf jacket of the presentinvention is durable and stable and yet it is sufficiently flexible. Thejackets of this invention also can be worn while engaging in many otheractivities such as tennis, boating, exercise classes, running, andwalking. Alternatively, the jackets may be worn as casual wear outsideof athletic programs.

As discussed above, one particular advantageous feature of the jacket isthe collar construction. As shown in FIG. 3, in conventional jackets,there is a tendency for the jacket to “sag” in the collar region (32).This stretching and sagging of the collar (32) may expose the neckregion to sun, wind, rain, sleet, and other elements. Furthermore, theexcessively loose collar may bother the golfer while he/she is focusingon the ball and making a shot. In play, golfers bend their neck and keeptheir head down when swinging a club. If the collar sags or is stretchedexcessively, it can be a distraction to the golfer. If there is loosecollar material hanging down, it can interfere with the golfer whenhe/she is bending over and addressing the ball. In contrast to suchconventional collars, the collar construction of the present invention(as shown in FIG. 1) provides a snug and structured fit around the neckregion. As discussed above, the height of the center section is greaterthan the height of the first and second end sections. Thus, the collarfits higher on the back portion of the neck. In this way, the collarprovides an effective water-tight seal and prevents rain, sleet, andother elements from running down the back of the neck. The collarmaintains its weather-protective seal around the neck of the wearerduring walking, golfing, or any other activity. The collar is heldfirmly in position during these activities. This uniformed look isaesthetically-pleasing and also comfortable. Also, there is no saggingcollar material to distract or interfere with the golfer when he/she islooking down at the ball to make a shot. The collar is held tightly inplace and yet is comfortable around the neck region.

In another embodiment of this invention, a jacket having a minimalamount of panels and seams can be constructed. The jacket has alightweight construction, good temperature-regulating properties, highstretch/elasticity, and an outer surface that is highly waterproof. Manyconventional jackets contain 20 or more panels that are joined togetherby 25 or more seams. These panels and seams can make the jacket feelheavy and bulky. When wearing such jackets, the golfer can feel theirmobility being restricted. This uncomfortable and tight feeling canaffect playing performance. In contrast, in one embodiment of the jacketof this invention, the jacket contains 10 or less panels, preferably 2to 5 panels and 6 or less seams, preferably 2 to 6 seams as described infurther detail below. These jackets are lightweight and less bulky thanmany conventional jackets. The jacket also has good waterproofproperties. By having fewer panels and seams, the water is naturallyrepelled—there are fewer places for water to collect. Furthermore, thejacket gives the golfer greater mobility. These jackets are comfortableto wear and do not restrict the golfer's ability to move their torso,arms, and other body parts so they can better play the game.

Particularly, the jacket is made of a three-layer bonded waterprooffabric. The inside layer (liner) is a brushed knit. For example, theliner can be made of “ThermoLite” hollow core fibers which help to trapbody heat when weather conditions are cool and help to wick awaymoisture and remove heat when conditions are warm. The middle layer is apolyurethane membrane. The outer layer is a polyester woven fabric withmechanical stretch and durable water repellent (DWR) finish. The jackethas good stretch properties and this helps the wearer move freely. Thejacket is soft and comfortable to wear.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the jacket shell (74) includes a torso portionthat extends from the shoulder region to the hip region of a wearer. Thetorso portion includes a front section (72) as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7and a rear section (73) as shown in FIG. 8.

The jacket shell (74) further includes sleeves (74 a, 74 b) extendingfrom the arm openings inside of the shell. The right sleeve (74 a)extends from a right shoulder region (76 a) to a right wrist region (78a), and the left sleeve (74 b) extends from a left shoulder region (76b) to a left wrist region (78 b) of a wearer. The front section (72) ofthe jacket shell (74) is split into two side members by a zipper (20) orother suitable fastening means (for example, buttons, snap fasteners,laces, Velcro® hook and loop fasteners, and the like).

As described above, a traditional zipper (20) may be used in the jacketshell (74) construction. The zipper includes first and second sets ofcomplementary zipper teeth for fastening the first and second sidemembers of the front section together. The first and second side membersof front section are joined and held together by the zipper. The zipperalso joins the first and second side members of the collar region asdiscussed above. The collar (18) in this embodiment of the jacket (74)has the same construction as the collar described above. In this manner,the jacket shell can be closed to cover the collar, torso, shoulder, andarm regions of the person wearing the jacket. Additionally, the jacketshell may include a pocket in the upper regions of the torso portion.For example, the jacket shell may include a zippered pocket in the upperchest area as shown in FIG. 1 discussed above. As shown in FIGS. 6-8,the jacket of this invention also may include pockets (75 a, 75 b) inthe lower side regions of the torso portion for placing hands or variousobjects. These pockets may be opened and closed by a zipper or othersuitable releasable closing means.

As shown in FIG. 9, in one preferred embodiment, the jacket (shell) (74)consists of five panels (80, 81, 82, 83, and 84) which are joinedtogether by six seams of stitching (90, 91, 92, 93, 94, and 95). Thisunique construction of a jacket shell consisting of five panels and sixseams allows the golfer to feel comfortable and move freely whilewearing the jacket. In this example, the jacket shell contains a limitedamount of panels (five) and seams (six). There are no excess panels orseams that can make the jacket feel heavy and bulky. The jacket islightweight and allows the golfer to have a high range of motion. Thegolfer can move his/her torso and arms easily in any direction withoutgetting entangled inside of the jacket. The flexibility of the jacketallows the golfer to bend their arms and move freely even when thejacket is zippered-up. The jacket does not feel bulky or “bunch-up” onthe wearer who is walking or making golf shots or engaging in any otheractivity such as, for example, tennis, boating, exercise classes,running, and walking.

More particularly, the jacket includes a first panel (80) extending froma first shoulder region to a first wrist region and an adjacent secondpanel (82) extending from the corresponding upper torso region to thefirst wrist region, the first and second panels (80, 82) being joinedtogether by first (90) and second (92) longitudinally-extending stitchedseams. The stitched together panels (80, 82) form an arm sleeve forencompassing one arm of a person wearing the jacket. In FIG. 9, theenjoined panels (80, 82) are shown forming the right-sided arm sleeve ofthe jacket.

The jacket further includes a third panel (81) extending from theopposing second shoulder region to the second wrist region and anadjacent fourth panel (83) extending from the opposing upper torsoregion to the second wrist region, the third and fourth panels (81, 83)being joined together by third (91) and fourth (93)longitudinally-extending stitched seams. In a manner similar to the armsleeve discussed above, the stitched together panels (81, 83) form anopposing arm sleeve for encompassing the other arm of the person wearingthe jacket. In FIG. 9, the enjoined panels (81, 83) are shownencompassing the left-sided arm sleeve of the jacket.

The jacket further includes a fifth panel (84) extending around thelower torso region and covering the upper/lower back region of thewearer, the fifth panel being joined to the first and second panels by afifth seam and to the third and fourth panels by a sixth seam.

As discussed above, the jacket of this invention has good stretch andwaterproof properties. In many conventional jackets, there are numerousseams. Because the fabric of the jacket must be folded under many seams,the fabric does not stretch very well and there is less mobility inthese jackets. However, in the jacket of this invention, there is asubstantially less amount of seams and the fabric is better able tostretch and bend. The jacket has more mobility and the wearer has betterrange of motion. Also, in many conventional jackets, the numerous seams,particularly in the shoulder regions, provide areas where rainwater cancollect. But, the jacket of this invention has relatively few seams andthey are located in selected regions of the jacket. This seam and panelconstruction helps prevents rain, sleet, and other elements from poolingon the jacket. There are relatively few panels and seams so there arefewer areas where the water can become trapped. Thus, the water isnaturally repelled and “runs off” the jacket. In this way, the jacketprovides good water repellency.

In particular, the jacket has good resistance to water penetration asmeasured according to Test Method: JIS L1092:2009, Section 7.1.2—MethodB—high hydrostatic pressure test. That is, water does not permeate fromoutside of the jacket to the inside of the jacket. Preferably, thejacket has greater than 10,000 mm water resistance; more preferablygreater than 20,000 mm; and even more preferably greater than 30,000 mm.In one embodiment, the jacket has water resistance in the range of about10,000 mm to about 40,000 mm. For example, the jacket can have waterresistance in the range of about 15,000 mm to about 35,000 mm. Inanother example, the jacket has water resistance in the range of about21,000 mm to about 31,000 mm and more specifically about 28,000 mm toabout 30,000 mm.

Also, as discussed above, the jacket has good moisture-wickingproperties as measured according to Test Method: JIS L1092:2012, MethodB-1—potassium acetate method. Water vapor is wicked away from the insideof the jacket to outside of the jacket and this is referred herein aswater vapor permeability. Preferably, the jacket has water vaporpermeability of greater than 8,000 g/m²/24 hr.; more preferably greaterthan 10,000 g/m²/24 hr.; and even more preferably greater than 15,000g/m²/24 hr. In one embodiment, the jacket has water vapor permeabilityin the range of about 8,000 to about 20, 000 g/m²/24 hr. For example,the jacket can have water protection in the range of about 10,000 toabout 18,000 g/m²/24 hr. In another example, the jacket has waterprotection in the range of about 12,000 to about 15,000 g/m²/24 hr. andmore specifically about 14,000 to about 15,000 g/m²/24 hr. In apreferred embodiment, the ratio of water resistance to water vaporpermeability is about 1.00 to about 1.00 and preferably in the range ofabout 1.00: 1.00 to about 5.00: 1.00. In one preferred example, theratio of water resistance to water vapor permeability is about 2.00 toabout 1.00. In another example, the ratio of water resistance to watervapor permeability is about 3.00 to about 1.00.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a prior art golf jacket (100) is shown duringuse in the rain. As will be appreciated, during the typical golf shotstance with the head oriented to look down at the golf ball, a gap willoccur between the neck of the golfer and the prior art collar. This gapallows rain drops to fall onto the golfer's neck and drip down theirback during the golf shot. This can be disruptive during a golf shotresulting in discomfort for the golfer and/or missed shots during theround. The golfer may become wet, uncomfortable and/or cold during playadversely affecting their game. Thus, an improved collar is desired thatwill assist in closing this gap that occurs while the golfer is in thetypical stance over a golf ball during a round of golf.

Referring to FIG. 11, another embodiment of a golf jacket shell (102)with a collar assembly (104) is shown. This collar assembly (104)includes an outer collar (106) (as described above) and an inner collar(108). Both the inner collar member (108) and outer collar member (106)each have a bottom edge (110). The inner collar (108) and outer collar(106) are preferably joined or sewn together at this bottom edge (110).It will be appreciated that they may be joined in the region near thisbottom edge (110) and not necessarily at the bottom edge (110) itself.Additionally, the inner collar (108) and outer collar (106) arepreferably joined or sewn together adjacent the first and second sideends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104). As described previously,the first and second side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104)may be joined together by a zipper (116) to form the collar assembly(104) into a tubular collar shape that is configured to fit around andenclose the neck region of the wearer.

As shown in FIGS. 12-14, preferably the inner collar (108) is made of afolded single piece of fabric with first and second long ends (118)mated to form a loop, and preferably sewn together to form a pocket(120). A cinch cord (122) is positioned within the pocket (120) of theinner collar (108). It will be appreciated that the pocket (120)provided by the inner collar (108) may be formed by having multiplepieces of material sewn together to form the pocket. Additionally, itwill be appreciated that the outer collar (106) may also be formed as aloop of material as shown. In FIG. 12, the cinch cord (122) is shownwith first and second ends (124, 126) each attached adjacent to thefirst and second side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104). Theinner collar (108) additionally includes an opening (128), through whicha portion of the cinch cord (122) is inserted to make an intermediateloop segment (130) provided adjacent the outer surface (132) (FIG. 14)of the inner collar member (108). A cinch member or slide lock (134),preferably a cord lock, is provided on the intermediate loop segment(130), such that the cinch member (134) can be activated to freely slidealong the looped cinch cord (122) to shorten or lengthen the amount ofcord provided within the inner collar member pocket (120). In anotheraspect of the invention, it will be appreciated that the cord has firstand second end segments (136, 138) attached to the first and second sideends (112, 114) and an intermediate third segment (140), formed as theintermediate loop segment (130), that extends from the cord lock (134).The first and second segments (136, 138) may be attached by a clip (142)as shown or by any suitable method such as sewing, to the first andsecond side ends (112, 114) of the collar assembly (104). The cord lock(134) is used for adjusting the inner collar (108) around the neckregion of a wearer as discussed further below. The intermediate thirdsegment (140) that extends through the cord lock (134) can be arelatively large or small intermediate loop segment (130) depending uponhow the wearer wants to adjust the collar assembly (104). As shown, apull member (141) may be provided on the intermediate loop segment (130)to assist in adjusting the size of the intermediate loop segment (130)and preventing the intermediate loop segment (103) from being pulledthrough or against the cord lock (134).

During use the golfer can easily pull the cinch cord (122) through thecord lock (134) before taking a golf shot when it is raining to lengthenthe intermediate loop segment (140) thereby making the intermediate loopsegment (130) bigger and reducing the amount of cord (122) within theinner collar (108). This will tighten the inner collar against thegolfer's neck region to prevent rain from dripping between the jacketshell (102) and their neck region and down their back. Alternatively,for example after a golf shot has been taken, the golfer may easily movethe cord lock (134) on the cinch cord (122) to shorten the intermediateloop segment (140) thereby making the intermediate loop segment (130)smaller and increasing the cinch cord (122) within the pocket (120) ofthe inner collar (108). This will loosen the inner collar making it morecomfortable while walking or riding to their next golf shot or when itis not raining. Although the cinch cord (122) is shown as a single cord,it will be appreciated that the cinch cord may be made of two or morepieces as desired.

As shown in FIGS. 13-15, the outer collar (106) is provided with atleast one through opening (144) adjacent the bottom edge (110) where itis attached to the inner collar (108) and the top edge (152) of thetorso (154) of the jacket shell (102). The opening (144) allows raincaught between the inner and outer collar members (106, 108) to drainfrom the space between the inner and outer collars. As shown in thisembodiment, the outer collar (106) is provided with two through openings(144) near the cord lock (134) on the collar assembly (104). Twoadditional through openings (144) are provided at the front of the outercollar (106) adjacent the first and second side ends (112, 114). It willbe appreciated that preferably at least two openings (144) are provided,and more preferably about four openings (144). As shown, the throughopenings (144) may be provided with grommets (146). The openings (144)are preferably about 3 mm to about 8 mm in diameter, and more preferablyabout 5 mm in diameter. It will be appreciated that any number ofthrough openings may be provided on the outer collar (106) to allow anyliquid, such as water, caught between the inner and outer collars (106,108) to pass or drain from the collar assembly (104).

Referring now to FIG. 16, an alternative embodiment of the collarassembly (104) is shown. The inner collar (108) in this embodiment isprovided with an elastic band or cord (150) having first and second ends(124, 126). The first and second ends (124, 126) are joined to the firstand second collar ends (112, 114) as previously described. The elasticband or cord (150) in the inner collar pocket (120) allows the innercollar (108) to ride against the neck region of a golfer during a golfshot to minimize the gap between the golfer's neck and the inner collar(108) of the jacket shell (102) to keep rain from dripping down thegolfer's neck during a golf shot. It will be appreciated that the innercollar (108) is not adjustable in this embodiment. Alternatively, thefirst and second ends (124, 126) of the elastic band or cord (150) couldextend from the first and second side ends (112, 114) of the collarassembly (104) and each include a cord lock (134) (not shown) todesirably shorten the elastic band or cord (150) before taking a golfshot, thereby keeping the inner collar (108) against the neck region ofthe wearer. It will be appreciated that these cord locks may be providedon either the inner or outer surface of the collar assembly (104). Itwill also be appreciated as shown in FIG. 16 that, as shown, the innerpocket (120) of the inner collar (108) may be formed as previouslydescribed. Additionally, the outer collar (106) and inner collar (108)may be formed and joined as previously described. The outer collar (106)may include the through openings (144) as previously described to allowany rain caught between the inner and outer collars (106, 108) to drainaway from collar assembly (104) and the neck region of the golfer tokeep them dry.

As shown in FIG. 11, in one preferred embodiment, the jacket shell (102)consists of three panels (156, 158, 160) which are joined together byfour seams of stitching (162, 164, 166, 168). This unique constructionof a jacket shell consisting of three panels and four seams allows thegolfer to feel comfortable and move freely while wearing the jacket. Inthis example, the jacket shell contains a limited amount of panels(three) and seams (four). There are no excess panels or seams that canmake the jacket feel heavy and bulky. The jacket is lightweight andallows the golfer to have a high range of motion. The golfer can movehis/her torso and arms easily in any direction without getting entangledinside of the jacket. The flexibility of the jacket allows the golfer tobend their arms and move freely even when the jacket is zippered-up. Thejacket does not feel bulky or “bunch-up” on the wearer who is walking ormaking golf shots or engaging in any other activity such as, forexample, tennis, boating, exercise classes, running, and walking. Itwill be appreciated that an additional fourth panel (170) may beincluded adding a fifth seam (172), this panel may be useful forproviding another different color region on the jacket shell (102).

Some golfers walk the entire course during play. Even golfers, whoprefer to drive carts, will walk a considerable distance. The jacket ofthis invention is comfortable and allows a golfer to walk naturally andfreely. Also, during normal golf play, a golfer makes shots with a widevariety of clubs. Depending upon the club used, the golfer can placetremendous torque and forces on their body. As the golfer swings a club,their torso rotates and arms bend in various directions. It is importantthat the golfer has a full range of motion. He or she must be able tomove freely and not feel restricted in any way. The golf jacket of thepresent invention allows a person to move freely so they can play thegame more easily. The golf jacket also allows them to play duringinclement weather without rain dripping between the jacket collar andtheir neck during a golf shot. The golfer may easily adjust the innercollar before a golf shot such that they are not disrupted by drips ofrain down their neck during shot taking.

It is understood that the jacket materials and constructions describedand illustrated herein represent only some embodiments of the invention.It is appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes andadditions can be made to materials and structures without departing fromthe spirit and scope of this invention. It is intended that all suchembodiments be covered by the appended claims.

We claim:
 1. A jacket, comprising: a shell, the shell comprising: atorso region configured for extending from a shoulder region to hipregion of a wearer, the torso region including a top edge, a bottom edgeand first and second torso side edges; a collar assembly configured forextending around a neck region of the wearer and connected to the topedge of the torso region, the collar assembly including first and secondcollar side ends, an inner collar member and an outer collar member; anda zipper extending from the torso bottom edge to the collar assembly,the zipper including first and second sets of complementary zipper teethfor fastening the first and second torso side edges of the torso regiontogether and first and second side ends of the collar assembly together,wherein the inner collar member is configured for closing into a smallerdiameter tube to more tightly lie against the neck region of the wearer.2. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the inner collar member includes acinch member attached to the first and second collar side ends totighten the inner collar member against the neck region of the wearer.3. The jacket of claim 2, wherein the cinch member is provided within apocket formed by the inner collar member.
 4. The jacket of claim 2,wherein the cinch member further comprises a cinch adjustment memberconfigured to adjustably tighten and loosen the inner collar adjacentthe neck region of the wearer.
 5. The jacket of claim 4, wherein thecinch adjustment member is a cord lock.
 6. The jacket of claim 1,wherein the inner collar member comprises an elastic member attached tothe first and second collar side ends to tighten the inner collar memberagainst the neck region of the wearer.
 7. The jacket of claim 1, whereinthe inner collar member and outer collar member are joined at a base toeach other and the top edge of the torso region of the shell.
 8. Thejacket of claim 7, wherein the inner collar member and outer collarmember are joined at the first and second side ends.
 9. The jacket ofclaim 7, wherein the outer collar member comprises at least one throughopening adjacent the base such that any liquid captured between theinner and outer collar members can pass through the at least one throughopening.
 10. The jacket of claim 9, wherein the through opening includesa grommet.
 11. The jacket of claim 9, wherein the at least one throughopening is between about 3 mm and about 8 mm in diameter.
 12. The jacketof claim 1, wherein the jacket has greater than 10,000 mmwater-resistance.
 13. The jacket of claim 1, wherein the jacket haswater vapor permeability of greater than 8,000 g/m²/24 hr.
 14. Thejacket of claim 1, wherein a ratio of water-resistance to water vaporpermeability is in the range of about 1.00:1.00 to about 5.00:1.00. 15.A collar for a jacket, comprising: a collar assembly configured forextending around a neck region of a wearer and connecting to a top edgeof a torso region of a jacket, the collar assembly comprising: first andsecond collar side ends; an inner collar member; and an outer collarmember, wherein the first and second side ends of the collar region areconfigured to be capable of being connected to one another by a zipperto form a tubular collar configured to fit around a neck region of awearer, and wherein the inner collar member is configured for closingmore tightly against the neck region of the wearer.
 16. The collar ofclaim 15, wherein the inner collar member comprises a cinch memberattached to the first and second collar side ends to tighten the innercollar member against the neck region of the wearer.
 17. The collar ofclaim 16, wherein the cinch member is provided within a pocket formed bythe inner collar member.
 18. The collar of claim 16, wherein the cinchmember further comprises a cinch adjustment member configured toadjustably tighten and loosen the inner collar adjacent the neck regionof the wearer.
 19. The collar of claim 18, wherein the adjustment memberis a pull cord and cord lock.
 20. The collar of claim 15, wherein theinner collar member comprises an elastic member attached to the firstand second collar side ends to tighten the inner collar member againstthe neck region of the wearer.
 21. The jacket of claim 15, wherein theinner collar member and outer collar member are joined at the first andsecond side ends.
 22. The collar of claim 15, wherein each of the innerand outer collar members have a base and are joined together adjacentthe base.
 23. The collar of claim 22, wherein the outer collar membercomprises at least one through opening adjacent the base such that anyliquid captured between the inner and outer collar members can passthrough the at least one through opening.
 24. The collar of claim 23,wherein the through opening includes a grommet.
 25. The collar of claim23, wherein the through opening is between about 3 mm and about 8 mm indiameter.